1. Managing mental health problems at work
Challenges and complexities
Dr Annie Irvine
Social Policy Research Unit

2. Outline The impact of mental ill health in work
(1) Job retention: what works?
Qualitative evidence
Quantitative evidence
(2) Challenges and complexities
Disclosure
Presenteeism
Academic culture
Discussion

3. The impact of mental ill health in work
16% of working age population affected
Accounts for 11.5% of working days lost
21% of working days lost in HE
37% of work-related illness cases
68% of HEIs top reason for long-term absence
HE Sector = high stress but low absence
Sources: Mc Manus et al, 2016; ONS, 2017; HSE, 2016; UCEA 2016

4. What works: Qualitative evidence
Flexibility
Hours
Location
Environment
Managerial and social support
Understanding and sensitive line managers
Positive co-worker relationships
Effective absence management
Role adjustment
Adjustment to duties
Redeployment
Re-employment
Mindset

5. What works: quantitative evidence
No consistent predictors
Mixed trial outcomes (some counterproductive)
Overall evidence base weak and inconclusive
But therapy in isolation does not improve RTW
Challenge:
Managing mental health and employment is context-dependent and subjective

6. Challenges and complexities

7. Challenges and complexities
Disclosure
Stigma
Non-clinical ‘disclosures’
Blurred boundaries: pressure > stress > illness
Presenteeism

8. Source: UCEA Sickness Absence in Higher Education Survey 2016

10. Challenges and complexities
Disclosure
Stigma
Non-clinical ‘disclosures’
Blurred boundaries: pressure > stress > illness
Presenteeism
Adjustment latitude
Presenteeism paradox
Academic culture
Long hours
Permeable home-work boundaries
Work as identity
Excellence and perfectionism

12. Discussion

13. Thank you!